Fifteen-month old German Shepherd Blitz is the newest K9 officer to join the Citrus Heights Police Department (CHDP). Blitz, the son of Bodie, a retired Sacramento City police K9, celebrated his graduation into the Citrus Heights K9 team on August 17, at the police K9 training center. His first day on the job was August 18. Blitz, originally named Ibo vom Valkyre after his father, was born on April 28, 2015, at Valkyre Kennels, owned by dog breeder, Rebecca Rodgers.

Blitz’s father Bodie, who is now eight years old, received local attention on May 12, 2012 when he was shot by a suspected car thief. During a foot pursuit, the suspect fired at Bodie’s handler, Sgt. Randy Van Dusen, missing him but striking Bodie in the jaw. Bodie survived his injuries but retired from police service in May 2013. He now lives with Van Dusen and his family and one of Blitz’s litter sisters, Bailey.

Tim Kiesling of Gold Hill Canine, working with D Tac K-9 took Blitz home and began his early foundation training at eight weeks, teaching him the basics of K9 law enforcement work. Kiesling realized Blitz was an unusually fast learner and had an innate understanding of what was expected of him during his training, making him a good candidate for police work.

This training, combined with the advantage of five generations of police work breeding, led to Blitz’s being sold to the CHPD at about 14 months. Word of his proficiency had preceded him and he was chosen over a ‘pool’ of 25 contenders for the position. He soon began the extensive 150 hours of training with his new handler, Officer Joe Davis, culminating with him becoming a certified police dog in just three weeks.

According to handler Davis, upon being accepted into the K9 program a dog’s training focuses on testing for his or her innate instincts and reactions, whether they have a natural ability and to function in all environments and situations, and to observe how he or she may respond around all kinds of people encountered during their career. A successful candidate is a K9 that does not hesitate or fail under pressure or when threatened. Testing and training is continuous.

Over 30 CHPD officers and administrative staff were present for the event. After posing for photos and interviews with the media, Blitz and Officer Davis showed off their teamwork and skills in catching the bad guys.

Blitz and dad Bodie also shared a graduation cake baked by Sgt. Nicole Garing, CH K9 Unit Supervisor, made of oatmeal, applesauce, honey with a peanut butter icing.